tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60946432536503944812024-03-05T14:46:30.077-05:00Mum~in~MotionSimply stated, Mum~in~Motion is created for the mums who 'keep it moving' while pursuing a balanced lifestyle.Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.comBlogger131125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-34752171279724500992017-08-11T19:26:00.003-04:002017-08-11T23:40:01.216-04:00Miracles in the storm!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyXqnFOJ8D5IC5wsZ1Ioojmz6tJUZ61KoPOvqUMgqfIUVfMZSf9Er37QfUsP75WIDjCnCUOywhA7YglUIG6VdH_E2g2BAX2-X0MJZI2hJP7knJyAmSQuFKjhCODfCnlu1u10gAYdGsdIf/s1600/IMG_2623.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="859" data-original-width="915" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgyXqnFOJ8D5IC5wsZ1Ioojmz6tJUZ61KoPOvqUMgqfIUVfMZSf9Er37QfUsP75WIDjCnCUOywhA7YglUIG6VdH_E2g2BAX2-X0MJZI2hJP7knJyAmSQuFKjhCODfCnlu1u10gAYdGsdIf/s320/IMG_2623.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Photo credit: Chris Valentine </b></div>
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You know when you have a dream or lofty goal for yourself and you are afraid to share with others because they may cast doubt or you may feel that' it's unattainable and you don't want to feel embarrassed if it doesn't materialize......well that used to be me many years ago until I learned that sharing my story is more helpful than hurtful and someone will be blessed by my transparency. My faith, believing in miracles and dreaming out loud while working in expectation creates a positive force so strong that nothing negative can penetrate and take me off my path. And if I fail or experience stormy times, it's just another opportunity to change course because there are miracles in the storm.<br />
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Now, having said that; it doesn't mean that I don't feel some trepidation (after all, I am human). However, it is my firm belief that if I'm constantly nudged by my inner voice about the same thought, then it must be placed there by my Creator. And if He placed it there, I have nothing to worry about so I Dream out loud and keep believing!<br />
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You'd be surprised how many people want to see you fail. People who don't even know you...there's just something about you they don't like. Likewise, there are many who are rooting for you and want to see you succeed. I cheer people on and pray for their success. People I don't even know! They would've posted a dream, goal or struggle on social media and as soon as I read it, I stop and say a prayer. Some of you have inboxed me asking why I put myself out there talking about my challenges in life. The answer is simple. To bless others who may be going through a similar experience. I want folks (especially women) to know that they're NOT the only ones going through tough times. I also want them to see that they can find moments of joy and witness miracles while going through their storm.<br />
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A couple years ago I had this desire to host a Talk Show and I did with the support of my family, namely, my husband. Nonetheless, we stopped taping due to some issues. But get this, episodes are still airing on Comcast. So I've decided to revamp, retool and recharge my dream and resume taping the first quarter of 2018. I'm also diligently penning my book which I affirm will be completed December 1, 2017. Once again, I'm putting myself out there. Why? Because a Dream delayed is not a dream denied. You have to speak life over your life and walk in your Purpose. You have to believe that you deserve all the good that's coming your way. I believe that in spite of my current struggles, my blessings will overtake me. Deuteronomy 28:2. Miracles abound! Everyday, I witness miracles....yes....every single day! They're very easy to see during storms because we are more acutely aware of our circumstances and the storms draw us nearer to God for shelter.</div>
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I experienced financial hardship just before my son was about to enter his freshman year in college. It was a very tough time but we managed to find joy in the midst of it. We witnessed abundant miracles/blessings also. It was August 2012. We were broke! How broke? Let's just say the type of broke that causes you to take cold showers cause your gas was turned off! Yup....THAT BROKE!!! My sister bought my son's stuff for his dorm. Some might say that we should've just let him stay home. But that was NOT an option! He believed that money would come and that he'd be okay. He was right! The God we serve performs miracles daily in our lives. We work hard, we pray often, we exercise our faith and we believe! November of 2012, we were called to support sheltering efforts during Hurricane Sandy (our company supports the government during federally declared disasters). Within 24 hours of Notice to proceed, we contracted 200 personnel and headed to NYC and Suffolk County. In 11 days this broke couple generated a little over 1.2 million dollars in revenue! Not only did we receive an 'EXCEPTIONAL' rating for our work (the highest rank a company can get in CPARS), but also, our exceptional work caused other major contractors to seek us out as teaming partners. Talk about miracle in the storm!<br />
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There's a lesson here. No matter what struggles you might be experiencing, keep dreaming, keep believing. Don't give up. Don't give in! Your miracle is fast approaching. Don't let negative people cause you to stop dreaming! When I openly talked about my hardship, I never stopped dreaming and I'm sure some folks prayed for me and blessed me. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and Dream Out LOUD! There's a blessing with your name on it. God will send you Divine connections and a bountiful harvest! Look for the miracles, stay faithful, stay encouraged and embrace your journey.Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-32540024421709083942017-03-08T20:27:00.001-05:002017-03-09T00:22:32.082-05:00The Women I Celebrate <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ipn_DewYQcLCwhQE9vyEMY7XpN6-jzBW8L87zaF8iHcUVcaEtgYKp8rgVFFqcaNkZP4JgLwkYHBRdgRI5sCW1CE1GToxt7M2XdgoQUon6uXz2V0J3dg9Xon6BIcsSX9gwFDyv0wcaoGl/s1600/IMG_2455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ipn_DewYQcLCwhQE9vyEMY7XpN6-jzBW8L87zaF8iHcUVcaEtgYKp8rgVFFqcaNkZP4JgLwkYHBRdgRI5sCW1CE1GToxt7M2XdgoQUon6uXz2V0J3dg9Xon6BIcsSX9gwFDyv0wcaoGl/s320/IMG_2455.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Today is about Mabel Romania Brewster, my paternal grandmother, whose roots were Bajan (Barbados). A housewife and mother to her son. She was determined and ambitious. She waited for my grandfather to leave for work so that she could wash and iron for her secret clients. Granny, as we called her saved enough money to build a house in 1932. That house was also my childhood home.<br />
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Today is about my maternal grandmother, Ena Evancia Marie Labadee. Born in St. Lucia with roots in France. She worked as a housekeeper and cook on the American base in Chaguaramas, Trinidad. In addition to being a single mother to 2 girls, she was also an entrepreneur...a seamstress. On her day off she sewed dresses, draperies and other items for her clients.<br />
These are the women whose achievements I celebrate today. These are the women whose legacy live within me. These are the women who fought against all odds in a patriarchal society for their rights, economic empowerment and equality; and in their own unique way, succeeded.<br />
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Today, I honor my queen, my mother, Annette Simeonise Gibson-Commissiong. For the first 10 years of my life, she was a Stay at Home mom. She never missed a PTA meeting, ballet practice nor recital. She did classes in floral arrangement, cooking, ceramics. She is a creative genius. In addition, she attended Secretary school. My mom is phenomenal....a badass who pursued her dream. She was also a singer in a choir. In the midst of all of this....she wanted more. Today I celebrate my mom, who decided to go to school for nursing while she was pregnant with my little sister. " Life for her was no crystal staircase". However, she had a vision for her life and she executed that vision in the midst of resistance and adversity.......and she faced many adversities but NEVER gave up!<br />
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She took us to help the poor, serve orphans and read to the elderly. She opened her home to women who had no place to go. She even brought children who were left at the hospital to spend Christmas with us. Today, I celebrate this woman who made tremendous sacrifices for her family. Her achievements are immeasurable. She raised us to be kind, loving, responsible well adjusted human beings who put God first. She believed that there was no substitute for education and exposure to other cultures. So she took us on many adventures during our summer holidays.<br />
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I come from a long legacy of strong,determined persistent women and I am very proud and grateful that they paved the way for me to be great. It is my responsibility now to pass this legacy on to my children. This is what I celebrate today on International Women's Day and this month, Women's History Month. Because of them, I am. Celebrate the women in your life, give them the honor and respect that they deserve. Stand with them! Speak up for them and their rights because women's rights are human rights. They deserve your support. To all you beautiful women, continue to be determined, be inspired, be motivated and embrace your journey.<br />
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<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-42056259850464447742017-02-10T16:23:00.002-05:002017-02-10T16:23:58.275-05:00MOVE...by Faith <br />
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I was sitting and reminiscing on a day back in September. A day that was difficult... a day I awoke with the feeling of emotional paralysis. I did not want to move. I felt overwhelmed. I was responsible for Lector duty at church that day. I volunteered to pick up food at a friend's restaurant and deliver to the center where we serve lunch to the homeless community on Sundays.....and I did not want to move!!!<br />
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You see, I had no gas and I did not have anything to prepare for our homeless guests. So I thought that I should just lay in bed, wallow in self pity and not move. It's amazing how we feel so privileged that a little bit of hardship could cause us to lose faith. The irony was that I was due to feed the homeless; and there I was blessed to be in a house with 7 bedrooms and 5 full bathrooms surrounded by the love of my family feeling sorry for myself and the hardship I was experiencing. The people I was about to serve had nothing but the bags they carry with them.<br />
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Suddenly, something overcame me and I jumped out my bed. I thought it would be selfish of me not to fulfill my responsibility to proclaim God's Word as Lector. I remember feeling a rush of energy come over me, and in Nicole fashion started yelling for the kid and husband to get dressed.<br />
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I remember vividly being overwhelmed by a flood of emotions when I opened the car door. I felt a Divine presence surround me that is <span style="background-color: white;">inexplainable</span>. As I opened the car door, there was a foil pan with mac and cheese on the seat of the car. As I turned the car on, the gas gauge read FULL! Even as I write this the love that I feel for God and my family brings me to tears. My sister came by and delivered the dish. She was unable to volunteer that day but wanted to send a dish. Also, knowing that I had no gas, she took the car, filled it and dropped it back before we awoke that morning. She has a spare key since the car I was driving was hers. I sat in gratitude for not only the gifts received, but also, for being obedient and MOVING!!!<br />
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You see, you never really know what others may be going through. Life throws us curve balls from time to time. Being in business for 18 years has taught me to accept that sometimes business has its ups and downs; or as my husband calls it "Feast and Famine". However, God is in the blessing business and when He assigns you a task; He sends angels to assist you in fulfilling the Mission....and at times you may be called to be someone's angel....be obedient and MOVE! Faith doesn't work unless you do as stated in James 2:14-17 -<br />
<i><span class="text Jas-2-14" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">[" </span>What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? ... I</span><span class="text Jas-2-15" id="en-NRSVCE-34563" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">f a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, </span><span class="text Jas-2-16" id="en-NRSVCE-34564" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">and one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,” and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? </span><span class="text Jas-2-17" id="en-NRSVCE-34565" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Verdana, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><b>So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.</b>"</span> ]</i><br />
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Faith and obedience create a transformation; at least it did for me that day in September. I had to move in order to be blessed and be a blessing. Because I moved, I was able to receive the blessing in time to proclaim God's Word at church and afterwards, bless homeless friends with not only the mac and cheese but the 4 dishes from Mayur Kabob's restaurant. My work (no matter how small) with our homeless neighbors is a 'Calling' that I humbly accept and enjoy. No matter what life throws at me, God always makes it possible for me to show up for them.<br />
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I learned a few lessons that day....<br />
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<li>Obedience is rewarded. Move so that Spirit can bless you and use you to bless others. </li>
<li>I have a loving and supportive family that I can depend on, ALWAYS, </li>
<li>It's not about me...It's all about the Mission. </li>
<li>Trust the process. </li>
<li>God makes EVERYTHING possible 🌟</li>
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<i><b>Be obedient, trust God, accept your Calling and embrace the journey!</b></i></div>
Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-59365099777352718602017-02-01T20:23:00.000-05:002017-02-01T20:30:20.284-05:00World Hijab Day<br />
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My daughter has a friend who no longer wears her hijab because it was unsafe for her to do so at her University in Wisconsin. So when my college student called and asked me if I would participate in World Hijab Day; naturally my answer was yes.<br />
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You never really know what a person goes through until you walk a few steps in her shoes. I must admit that the glares and stares I received caused me some discomfort. However, the smiles and warm greetings I also received helped me overcome the discomfort. I believe that people, at their core, are kind and that lack of knowledge and misinformation creates fear.<br />
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Hijabs are not mandatory. Muslim women wear it as a sign of humility and modesty. For some, the way they wear it depends on where they are on their spiritual journey. It requires a great deal of discipline and prayer as they seek a deeper relationship with God (Allah). Learning this deepened my admiration for those who deliberately drape their heads daily with their scarves knowing that there is a prevalence of Islamophobia. Clearly, their faith is stronger than their fear and the necessity of developing an intimate relationship with God is very important to them.<br />
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So today, I wore a hijab in support of Muslim women worldwide and respect their right to cover as they demonstrate their chosen faith.<br />
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<b>Co-Authored by Sierra Armstrong</b><br />
Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-41654254983641022922016-12-02T20:33:00.001-05:002016-12-03T10:56:49.128-05:00What did you TRY today?<br />
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Over the past couple months my husband began floating a new question around our house daily..."What did you try today?" It's so genius and quite a motivating concept.<br />
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Fear of failure and fear of rejection can paralyze you. Sometimes kids don't participate in class because they're afraid to be wrong. I know my older kids had that problem in elementary, middle & at times, even high school. So when my husband decided to test this new question, I was sold. I had no idea the impact that it would have on me! We were doing it for the kid.....but it has proven to be very motivating for me. We reward the try. We don't focus heavily on the outcome. The fact that you tried was reason to celebrate. <br />
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At dinner we asked our son, "What did you try today? " His response, "I ran for class Vice President but I didn't win." The idea is not to minimize the competitive spirit. (anyone who knows our family, knows that we're highly competitive and that we play to win). That's why taking the risk to try is so important. Think of the successes we miss out on because we were too afraid to try. If we push ourselves to keep trying knowing that the reward is in the "try", we will win, eventually. So instead of moping around when we try and fail; now we're motivated to get up and try again.<br />
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I have been so motivated and eager for the question to be asked at the dinner table because this question rendered me fearless. I made phone calls and showed my vulnerable side in pursuit of closing deals for first quarter 2017.....and it worked! It was all about the try. It caused me to function outside my comfort zone. I also want my son to know that in my try I was nervous, doubtful, scared but I tried anyway; because we celebrate the "try".<br />
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As 2016 is coming to a close, I'd like to impress upon you to TRY! Be vulnerable, be nervous, be doubtful......and give yourself permission to TRY. Don't allow fear to paralyze you. TRY and encourage your children to try.<br />
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Be bold, be fearless, celebrate the try and embrace your journey.Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-71319236431033916352016-11-19T20:40:00.001-05:002016-11-19T21:03:59.270-05:00Holiday Leaves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was such an awesome Autumn day. My niece and I gathered leaves and danced among the trees. It was so windy that it looked as if it was raining leaves!<br />
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I took the leaves we gathered and decided to include them in my Thanksgivng dinner. No, we're not eating leaves for dinner, but we will be using them as dish place-cards on the buffet.<br />
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I spray painted the leaves gold and when they dried, I wrote the name of each dish I'll be preparing for our family dinner. A can of metallic spary paint cost about $5.00 and a permanent sharpie marker is perfect for writing on the leaves. Be sure to have fun with it. You can spray the entire leaf or just partially cover it.<br />
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Safety note: Wear gloves. Make sure that you spray leaves in a ventilated area. The smell can make you ill. I did mine in my inner patio which is properly ventilated. I love adding a special touch to my decor and this was simple and inexpensive. <br />
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Be creative, be safe, go leaf hunting, have fun and embrace your journey.<br />
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Happy Thanksgiving 🍁Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-16422519587607846242016-11-08T18:01:00.000-05:002016-11-08T18:01:26.842-05:00Election 2016: A daughter's perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Photo credit: Sierra Armstrong</b><br />
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After all the difficulties I had registering to vote here in Louisiana, I have officially voted in my first Presidential election.<br />
It's overwhelming to finally have the opportunity to show my gratitude for all the blood, sweat, and tears that have gone into securing and protecting this right for me.<br />
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However, this is also the first Presidential election since the Voting Rights Act was gutted. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing voter disenfranchisement and the cyclical nature of oppression. My dad reminded me today to "continue fighting to protect your truth even if it takes your life".<br />
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I'm not sure what that will look like for me after today. As my perspective shifts, I'm not sure how long I will be participating in and supporting this process. But today was about saying thank you the best way I know how.<br />
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Blogpost written by Sierra Marie ArmstongNicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-65643038711552733482016-10-07T00:14:00.001-04:002016-10-07T00:14:26.752-04:00Baby's 1st Birthday<br />
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Baby's first birthday can be so exciting and overwhelming. My niece turned 1 this week and my sister had a party planned for her at the park. However, the threat of rain caused her to rethink the party and she decided to just celebrate her with her siblings at our home.<br />
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Sometimes keeping the celebration simple creates a space for the family to focus on baby and each other. I captured pics of my niece in her awesome outfit my sis found on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SweetChubbyCheeks" target="_blank">Sweet Chubby Cheeks</a> etsy store. <br />
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How cute is her birthday fashion? Do you prefer intimate or lavish parties for baby's 1st birthday? Either way make it fun, make it fashionable, make it memorable and embrace your journey!<br />
<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-28475105455004945012016-10-04T18:54:00.001-04:002016-10-04T19:14:37.884-04:00Know your Breasts!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Earlier this year I got a scare (after having a mammogram) that there was a spot on my breast that needed further tests. It was my first time being faced with a breast health issue and I was scared. 3 breast fed kids, healthy lifestyle, no history of breast cancer in my family and breasts that have been headed south for quite a while, I, in my ignorance, thought that I was out of the woods. I clearly didn't know enough about my breasts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">However, I later learned that a<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , "clean" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;">bout "85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer." This caused me to take my breast health more seriously.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The reality, 1 in<span style="color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , "clean" , sans-serif; font-size: 15px;"> 8 U.S. women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.</span></span><br />
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Current year estimates for breast cancer</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The American Cancer Society's estimates for breast cancer in the United States for 2016 are:</span></div>
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<li style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">About 246,660 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women.</span></li>
<li style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 10px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">About 61,000 new cases of carcinoma in situ (CIS) will be diagnosed (CIS is non-invasive and is the earliest form of breast cancer).</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.46667em; margin-bottom: 8px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer, besides lung cancer.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 1.46667em; margin-bottom: 8px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">About 2,600 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men in 2016. A man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;"><b><u>Risk Factors include:</u></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Being a Woman</span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Age (risk increases as you get older)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Family History </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Genetics</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Being Overweight</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Pregnancy History</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Race/Ethnicity</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Breastfeeding History</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Unhealthy Eating</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;"><a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/risk/factors" target="_blank">Click here</a> for a complete list and explanation of risk factors.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Some steps you can take to reduce risk factors include regular exercise, healthy eating habits, limit alcohol consumption, no smoking and checking your breasts often. Get to know your breasts and visit your physician if you feel or see any signs of irregularities. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;">Your health is your greatest asset and that includes breast health. Be informed, be aware, be healthy and embrace your journey.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;"><b><u><i>RESOURCES</i></u></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;"><a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/understand_bc/statistics" target="_blank">Breast cancer statistics</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;"><a href="http://m.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-key-statistics" target="_blank">American Cancer Society</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #5e5e5e; font-family: "helvetica";"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 26.3603px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/breast.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">National Cancer Institute</span></a></div>
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<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-40839994692230960522016-09-12T23:35:00.004-04:002016-09-12T23:38:16.900-04:00Back 2 School Dinner<br />
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Back to School calls for organization and structure for the kids and especially, the parents. The freedom which accompanies the warm summer months are now behind us. It's back to PTA meetings, homework check, lunch box packing, after school sports, breakfast in the car, piano lessons, school dances, field trips.... and so much more. In the midst of all of these, I choose to focus on dinner. The meal that I have control over...where we connect and share our day's experiences.<br />
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Dinner can be challenging, and even though there will be days when dinner will take place in the car or at the pool (the kid is a year round swimmer); the days when we dine together at home, I make sure to prepare healthy, delicious meals that don't require hours in the kitchen. We sometimes make it fun by creating themes. For example, Meatless Monday, Taco Tuesday, Wildcard Wednesday, Trinidad Thursday, Fast Food Friday.<br />
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The best way to ensure stress free dinner prep, is to plan your meals for the week.<br />
I plan my weekly menu with everyone's input. That way it's a collaborative family effort. They are simple meals but my son thinks my dinners are gourmet. Lol.<br />
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Following these steps can also help you save money by sticking to the list and not buying items you don't need.<br />
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Meal planning steps<br />
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<ul>
<li>Create menu</li>
<li>Type menu and place on refrigerator</li>
<li>Create shopping list </li>
<li>Go shopping</li>
<li>Prep meal the night before </li>
<li>Prepare dinner with ease</li>
</ul>
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Below is a meal I prepared under 30 minutes for Meatless Monday! Vegetable penne with asparagus, mushrooms and tomatoes in a roasted garlic cream sauce.<br />
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Ingredients<br />
1 head roasted garlic<br />
6 Tbsp butter<br />
1 3/4 cup heavy cream<br />
1 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese<br />
1/2 tsp Montreal chicken seasoning<br />
1 tsp cornstarch + 2Tbsp water<br />
1 box vegetable penne pasta<br />
Asparagus (cut to your preferred size)<br />
Mushrooms (sliced)<br />
Cherry tomatoes (cut in half)<br />
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Instructions<br />
Cook pasta according to instructions on box. Put aside<br />
Sautee mushrooms and asparagus in olive oil. Put aside<br />
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Cream Sauce recipe:<br />
- Remove cloves of roasted garlic and mash with a fork.<br />
- In a medium saucepan over MED-LOW heat, add butter and melt.<br />
- Pour in cream and garlic and heat to a simmer.<br />
- Whisk in the seasoning and cheese.<br />
- Add cornstarch and water mixture, (it will be a thick paste), and whisk to remove any lumps.<br />
- Continue to whisk until sauce has thickened, a few minutes.<br />
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Add sauteed veges and tomatoes to cream sauce stir.<br />
Remove from heat.<br />
Place pasta in serving dish<br />
Pour veges and cream sauce onto pasta.<br />
Serve. <br />
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Get organized, be stress free, plan meals and embrace your journey!<br />
<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-33841058526441807282016-08-11T02:29:00.000-04:002017-02-08T13:59:06.267-05:00College life...drugs, sex and alcohol<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week I saw quite a few moms commenting on social media that their kids would NEVER indulge in underage drinking or drugs. They were responding to Malia Obama's alleged pot smoking at the Lollapalooza concert in Illinois. My immediate reaction was GTFOH!<br />
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Parents need to stop attaching their self-worth to their children. If your kid makes a good decision you're a good parent. If your kid makes a bad decision, then it stands to reason that you're a bad parent. That's just sad. My husband and I did the best we could with what we knew and we realized a long time ago that our children are individuals who will mess up from time to time. That doesn't make them or us bad. It makes them human. How do they learn if they're not allowed to make mistakes? We're there to love, inform and guide. The rest is left to them. Hopefully, the lessons you imparted upon them in their early years would be a strong influence on their young adult lives. And of course, prayer still works.<br />
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Now back to alcohol and drugs. Most kids are introduced to drugs in High School. So if you have HS kids and you haven't had discussions with them on the topic, you're behind the 8 ball. Open dialogue is very important and a very open mind. Most importantly, you must be honest. Don't sugar coat the negative effects. When my kids talked about pot and alcohol at the dinner table and how many of their friends used, I wanted to pull their behinds out and homeschool them immediately. That thought lasted about 2 minutes. I don't have the temperament to teach, especially teens. So back to school they went and we kept an open line of communication and have an ongoing conversation especially now that they're in college.<br />
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If you have young adults who are about to embark upon a college career, please take your head out the clouds and talk to them about drugs, drinking responsibly and protective sex or abstinence. It's a public health issue. I can assure you that most of them indulge in one, if not all. You should not send them off without equipping them with the information needed for their protection.....and please be honest!!! If you need help in starting the discussion, <a href="http://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/parentsandstudents/parents/default.aspx" target="_blank">click here</a><span id="goog_469104432"></span><span id="goog_469104433"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>.<br />
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When my daughter was leaving for her first year, I kept reiterating to her to not let ANYONE mix her drinks and don't leave her drinks unattended. I told her be sure to drink lots of water and limit herself to one drink. Sure it was uncomfortable, but I had to ensure that she had the information because I know she would be drinking. Get to know your kids. I have a zero tolerance about drugs and my kids know that. However, if they choose to try it, there's nothing I can do to stop them. Luckily for me, the one who tried it, didn't like the feeling and decided that there is no way that they would ever do that again. Whew, one less thing for me to worry about. I'm also grateful that in trying it no harm was done. Even though I was happy that that child shared with me, It was also frightening. So before you go judging other kids and their parents, think back to your college years and guide your college kids accordingly. Get information so that you can be knowledgeable on the topic and can guide them openly and honestly, equipped with facts.<br />
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Be prudent, be open minded, be loving and embrace your journey.<br />
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RESOURCES<br />
www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov<br />
www.drugabuse.gov<br />
<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-74260659351751996672016-07-25T00:43:00.001-04:002016-07-25T01:08:59.675-04:00Working 24/7 will not bring you success<br />
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One thing I've learned over my 17 years in business is working 24 hours a day, 7 days a week doesn't make you successful but it will make you crazy. I see so many women in business celebrating "no sleep" as they "build an empire". If they keep that up, they may never see or enjoy the rewards of their empire.<br />
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We must take time to recharge and rejuvenate. Rest is a key component to success. If we follow the example of our Creator we will recognize the importance of rest. There is no greater creation than the universe and the world we live in; yet, the Creator rested on the 7th day. In Genesis chapter 2:2 it states, "<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px;">By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done." If God rested why do we think in order to be successful we must forgo rest?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px;">I have learned to make the most of my weekends and defy society's standard of success and entrepreneurial practices. My weekends are for faith, family, friends and fun. Worship and serving those in need rejuvenates my soul. Going for a walk, reading a book, sitting by a body of water or taking myself on a date is a surefire way to recharge my creative genius.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px;">That old adage, "Life is too short" rings true. I intend to make the most of my time here on earth and though building empires are essential to survival, building a life and relationships are more important to me now. The older I get the more those whom I love have become central to my existence. We must make time to spend with our loved ones. A legacy of love is what I hope to leave my family. It is my hope that they will remember me as hard working, but more importantly, one who loved completely. I speak with my brothers often, however, I need to spend more one on one time with them. I have to intentionally make a commitment to succeed at this. Family is essential to business success also. They keep you grounded and motivate you to be better and fight those daily battles which can leave you feeling defeated. The love of family and weekend rejuvenation give you the energy to not give up and win! There's no success like the love and support of family and friends. We must work diligently to develop and maintain our relationships. We cannot accomplish this feat if we work 24/7.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px;">Use your weekends wisely. Spend quality time with the ones you love. Get rest. Worship. Serve others. Play with your children. Connect with self. I guarantee that if you use your weekends wisely, your weekdays will become more productive and business will improve. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px;">Be well rested, be connected, be rejuvenated and embrace your journey.</span>Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-2510374013138366262016-07-06T21:40:00.000-04:002016-07-06T21:44:46.827-04:00Thoughts of an 11 year old<br />
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My 11 year old spends his quiet time writing poetry. Events which have occurred in the past few years have influenced his writing.<br />
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No matter how much we assure our childten that they are safe, the constant occurence of black men dying at the hands of police officers leave them feeling scared and powerless.<br />
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My son, Simon, uses his poetic voice as his activism and as a means of reclaiming his power.<br />
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After hearing about the recent killing of Mr Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, he asked me to publish 2 of his poems which he wrote many months ago.<br />
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The following poem was written by Simon John Armstrong - Age 11<br />
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INSANITY<br />
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Wash me clean<br />
Do you think I'm mean?<br />
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Let me rest<br />
I'm trying my best<br />
I'm wearing a hoodie<br />
don't be a bully<br />
I have a fake gun<br />
Don't shoot me tackle my sister and run<br />
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Let me walk<br />
I don't have a gun load<br />
Please. Don't put me in a chokehold<br />
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What do I do now that I have gone?<br />
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BLACK LIVES MATTER...don't get it wrong<br />
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The following poem was written by Simon John Armstrong Age 11<br />
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HUGGABLE and LOVEABLE<br />
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Help me, HELP ME PLEASE<br />
Would you not help me<br />
Because of the way I look the way<br />
I read a book or the way I cook<br />
To you am I a thug?<br />
I have all the stuff you have, a rug, LOVE, and a hug<br />
In your mind do I have no purpose more than a bedbug?<br />
LIES LIES LIES! You think of us as nothing more than flies<br />
Through the night in cities you hear our cries<br />
No. But to you they're all lies without one look without my hand shook you think I'm a crook and still you look at me with not one look.<br />
I am huggable and loveable.<br />
<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-3665423538060423712016-07-04T23:45:00.000-04:002016-07-04T23:45:50.777-04:00GROWTH.....It's a Process!<br />
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One thing I've learned about growth is that it's a process. As your seed is planted, you water it with hard work and dedication in anticipation of blossoming. However, the process is littered with an array of circumstances. Pests, storms, weeds and pruning. When growing anything, love and care are imperative to the process.<br />
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Pests seek to feed off your progress. They come into your sacred space only to benefit from your growth. They feed off your growth, take what they need and in the process hurt you, sometimes unintentionally. You must be able to control the pests without killing them. Build resistance against them and forge forward. Pests will make you believe that you cannot grow. You dont deserve to grow and will attempt to infect you with negativity and doubt. Your strength will be tested by your tenacity to grow in spite of these pests. Though you may not be able to stop them, you can mitigate the onslaught of an infection by building an immunity to fight them. Believing in yourself and the process, meditation, prayer and other <a href="http://muminmotion.blogspot.com/2016/04/selfcareon-pathway.html?m=0" target="_blank">selfcare practices</a> to reinforce your confidence and focus are ways to vaccinate against pests.<br />
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Like pests, you cannot stop storms from coming through. Storms facilitate growth. Accepting and experiencing them prepare you to enjoy the blooms that will emerge afterwards. During the storm you will be tossed around, beaten up, bent and some parts will even break off. The parts that break are the weak parts that needed to be removed so that your genius can flourish. When the storm passes, the very essence of who you are will remain rooted, steadfast, consistent and strong. You cannot withstand the storm without selfcare, love and acceptance. These elements protect and fortify you.<br />
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An integral part of protection and selfcare during the growth process is weeding. Weeds will choke you and stifle your growth. People and things that prevent you from growing must be removed. You need space and light for your creative branches to develop and bloom. Fertilizing your life with persons who feed your potential, bring you light and encourage growth is imperative. Surround yourself with people (truth tellers) who will help you clip and prune habits that stagnate your growth. The removal of bad habits and unproductive thoughts through pruning allows the energy to be rerouted to your core purpose to maximize your potential and growth. Authentic friends who love you and want to see you blossom will prove helpful during this process.<br />
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Dig deep. Stay rooted. Pursue your passion. Do what you love. The growth process will make you uncomfortable and you will have unpleasant experiences. However, the lessons you learn will prove to be very fruitful. Forge ahead. Don't give up. Include <a href="http://muminmotion.blogspot.com/2016/04/selfcareon-pathway.html?m=0" target="_blank">Selfcare Practice</a> in your daily routine. GROW. Your blossoms will emerge. Be determined, be strong, be steadfast and embrace your journey.<br />
<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-42206904395456638882016-06-11T11:29:00.002-04:002016-06-11T11:31:53.757-04:00It's Global Wellness Day!!!<br />
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"One day can change your whole life" is the motto for <span id="goog_877745653"></span><a href="http://globalwellnessday.org/en#about" target="_blank">Global Wellness Day</a><span id="goog_877745654"></span>, which is celebrated on the second Saturday of June.<br />
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This day is dedicated to understanding the value of life. Take some time today to incorporate one of the 7 principles that encompass this day. The idea is to be mindful of your health and to empower you to take steps to embrace a healthy lifestyle.<br />
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7 Steps of the Global Wellness Day Manifesto<br />
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<ul>
<li>Walk for 1 hour</li>
<li>Drink more water</li>
<li>Do not use plastic bottles</li>
<li>Eat organic foods</li>
<li>Do a good deed</li>
<li>Have a family dinner</li>
<li>Go to sleep by 10:00pm</li>
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We all want to look and feel better so grab your kids, spouse or friend and join others around the world by intentionally taking care of your physical and spiritual well being. </div>
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Eat healthy, be active, be kind and embrace your journey.</div>
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<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-66300700039942242712016-05-06T15:25:00.000-04:002016-05-06T15:38:13.245-04:00Hey moms...it's YOUR day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is so much pressure for Mother's Day. I always felt that it's a day to spend with the kids. I really love spending time with them. But after 22years of motherhood, I've realized that its MY day and I should not feel guilty for wanting to spend this day alone. Those moms with perfectly curated social media may grasp their pearls at the thought of spending Mother's day alone. But for me, I'm not striving for perfection....I'm just trying to maintain sanity.<br />
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As a mom, some days I'm the therapist...then there are days when I may be the cause for them to get therapy. Other days I'm the chauffeur.... and days where I'm like "I'm not going a damn place today...Im tired". Then there are days when I'm the healthy "clean eating" chef....and days when breakfast is leftover pizza or store bought waffles with ice cream.<br />
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We moms need to be more honest and authentic with each other and stop making other moms feel inadequate or incompetent. We need to dispel the myth of the "perfect mom"....it does not exist. We need to "lighten up" and enjoy motherhood. We need to share our experiences with each other. We're in this together!!! We need to allow our kids to teach us as we guide them. And as crazy and hectic as our lives are, we need to reach out and support other moms who may be having a tough time and offer encouragement. We need to take care and nurture our sanity on this journey.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAHGWYdvf_JQ1L4YA9Y0lQAYzzHaFSFpssPpYPLLLco4GG6TY1gAuP9jFtgKfBtyn9ljpd8A338sRFmuS_JrvKUX1uOvLUwicL_JHON_M0hjOiFOLBGThByCbL_Xr65YeJSTDEXHxYTvG/s1600/Screenshot_2016-05-06-14-29-29-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJAHGWYdvf_JQ1L4YA9Y0lQAYzzHaFSFpssPpYPLLLco4GG6TY1gAuP9jFtgKfBtyn9ljpd8A338sRFmuS_JrvKUX1uOvLUwicL_JHON_M0hjOiFOLBGThByCbL_Xr65YeJSTDEXHxYTvG/s320/Screenshot_2016-05-06-14-29-29-1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Every day is Mother's day, so on this day that's set aside for our recognition, do something for you, without the kids. Don't feel guilty for spending time without them. You spend time with them ALL THE TIME! This day is YOUR day to show yourself love. Take care of your sanity. Self care is a necessity for all mothers. Set aside time daily just for you, but especially on this special day. I promise you that the kids will be okay. Taking some time for you to replenish is actually a gift to them.<br />
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Wishing you a Mother's Day filled with love and rejuvenation. And whatever you decide to do in celebration of your day, be sure to restore, reflect and renew as you embrace your journey.Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-48805445733783807442016-04-30T01:23:00.000-04:002016-04-30T10:43:34.413-04:00SelfCare......on the PATHWAY<br />
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We are so busy solving the problems of so many that we forget the most significant relationship......the one with ourselves. In an attempt to rekindle that relationship, we co-hosted an event with p2hF.org entitled, Selfcare...on the PATHWAY. This event was created to bring women together in an intimate, safe space to gather, share, unite and inspire each other to live a life of balance.<br />
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I'm basking in the glow of gratitude. Our event Sponsor, Relache Spa Gaylord National graciously provided us with the space including the invigorating room where the women enjoyed time in the sauna, jacuzzi and steam room. They also provided our guests with refreshments and gift bags to stimulate their senses.<br />
I'm most grateful for our guests who inspired each other and me with some of their current self care practices.<br />
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Attendees were given tools and techniques to incorporate into their selfcare regimen along with a body scan meditation to enable them to be more mindful in their daily lives.<br />
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The following are some of the tools/techniques discussed.<br />
<br />
MIND<br />
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<ul>
<li>Take a different route to work once per week</li>
<li>Lay outdoors on your back and focus on sky/clouds</li>
<li>Unplug from technology for about 15 mins. per day. Work your way up to 1 hour.</li>
</ul>
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BODY</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Go walking, running or climb stairs daily</li>
<li>Be still. Sit outdoors in silence for 10 mins </li>
<li>Admire your naked body. Be thankful for it</li>
</ul>
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SOUL</div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Be kind. Help someone in need...a neighbor or a friend</li>
<li>Be mindful and look for beauty in your travels to work or while running errands</li>
<li>Take yourself on a date. Spend time with you.</li>
</ul>
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Most importantly, our guests were told to get rest. Sleep is necessary for restoration and rejuvenation. In order to take care of others, we must take care of ourselves. Try including some of these tools into your daily lives. Let us know which ones you will give a try and why.</div>
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Be mindful, be kind, be present and embrace your journey.</div>
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<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-66661235310121953012016-03-25T11:40:00.002-04:002016-04-07T02:52:50.514-04:00Bags of hope...on the PATHWAY<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGFTUXDs5f5wnfJHf6RwDnxk39y3MBhspLTcy82JBhRSAhuokTcO1b0ysBwmnUKBsi1bHqFsqzUhlNU6Y5A6niG8G2ZiIKj0Plpcqfj_l8mar00bm8a1GyhPkivkpPWc2z0N10wi00d_S5/s1600/IMG_87161-01-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGFTUXDs5f5wnfJHf6RwDnxk39y3MBhspLTcy82JBhRSAhuokTcO1b0ysBwmnUKBsi1bHqFsqzUhlNU6Y5A6niG8G2ZiIKj0Plpcqfj_l8mar00bm8a1GyhPkivkpPWc2z0N10wi00d_S5/s1600/IMG_87161-01-1-01.jpeg" /></a></div>
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The Saturday before Holy Week we were committed to creating 30 care packages for homeless families. It was an event we co-hosted with <a href="http://www.p2hf.org/" target="_blank">Pathway to Healthy Families</a>. However, there was a resounding response to our 'call to action' and with the donations from the community we were able to bless 85 homeless citizens (including children).<br />
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We are the change we seek.<br />
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One thing I've learned that weekend was that there are many who want to help. We just have to ask. I was truly humbled by the outpouring of love and support for this mission. I was overwhelmed and yet filled with joy by the heartfelt thanks from those who received the blessing bags. They were indeed very grateful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBx9_S0eWLOkF1zVrOrklf3vCtUxWGvzlVUyfvszMjfYaTLLF6BYWdTiBn1NoDHOFgzSWpKRgySc8RPNS8-X2BdBWB769HidDAG3mKwsSfDTpFKr6EQjdIiB4tEN6cSEBlzZiLiSw4fdN/s1600/FB_IMG_1458856977830-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBx9_S0eWLOkF1zVrOrklf3vCtUxWGvzlVUyfvszMjfYaTLLF6BYWdTiBn1NoDHOFgzSWpKRgySc8RPNS8-X2BdBWB769HidDAG3mKwsSfDTpFKr6EQjdIiB4tEN6cSEBlzZiLiSw4fdN/s320/FB_IMG_1458856977830-1-01.jpeg" width="255" /></a></div>
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Making blessing bags is a great way to give back with your family or friends and bring hope to those who feel hopeless. I encourage you to do this activity with your children. It's a wonderful activity to teach them the necessity in helping others.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tQKzvCcHf9cW4ZEHby-RVWQRAxltZz_gdZYIOc9Z4jN7dyzEGPAThz97XpOjM1sbC2d7TE8g1rX5vVmLCiwEdLqe9rSiis9RXq2aKjHa10h2c_grN28TtUJcCwsWmwbPL0unCkTlUtdV/s1600/FB_IMG_1458856968887-1-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tQKzvCcHf9cW4ZEHby-RVWQRAxltZz_gdZYIOc9Z4jN7dyzEGPAThz97XpOjM1sbC2d7TE8g1rX5vVmLCiwEdLqe9rSiis9RXq2aKjHa10h2c_grN28TtUJcCwsWmwbPL0unCkTlUtdV/s320/FB_IMG_1458856968887-1-1-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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How to make blessing bags?<br />
Fill gallon ziploc bags with the following items:<br />
Wipes<br />
Deodorant<br />
Toothbrush<br />
Toothpaste<br />
Mouthwash<br />
Hand sanitizer<br />
Soap<br />
Lotion<br />
Tissue<br />
Lip balm<br />
Vaseline<br />
Socks<br />
A bottled water<br />
High fiber snack<br />
Inspirational note<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqxSMQROZfx2vcX32GZjWDX-0HW36fwiZJ_3DJwthnK66GsYNb7yzb5_g3RLfKuhlTo8LDA9CmmnHe0yaKv51BQ6escUtbSbrxdDVmpXpZv8V_x3XwqjLxsFI7Iw2GUGQ2_VkJYF-5l44/s1600/FB_IMG_1458857030506-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqxSMQROZfx2vcX32GZjWDX-0HW36fwiZJ_3DJwthnK66GsYNb7yzb5_g3RLfKuhlTo8LDA9CmmnHe0yaKv51BQ6escUtbSbrxdDVmpXpZv8V_x3XwqjLxsFI7Iw2GUGQ2_VkJYF-5l44/s320/FB_IMG_1458857030506-1-01.jpeg" width="221" /></a></div>
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Once you've packed bags, head to a park, shelter or area where homeless citizens gather and bless them by handing them out.<br />
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Be kind, be giving, share your resources and embrace your journey.Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-55281794755754115022016-03-08T10:14:00.001-05:002016-03-08T11:55:43.527-05:00It's International Women's Day!<div style="text-align: center;">
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It's International Women's Day and I celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.<br />
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As mothers it is imperative that we raise our kids to respect equality of both genders. We must teach our sons that girls are not "less than" and teach our daughters "self worth". It's not too late to instill these qualities in our children. They learn by example within their environment.<br />
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<ul>
<li>There are no gender roles - When giving chores, don't only give your girl the kitchen (indoor duties) and your boy the outdoor duties. </li>
<li>Allowances must be shared equally and they should work for it.</li>
<li>Leadership must be encouraged. Allow your girls to lead. Even if they are younger than your boys. </li>
</ul>
<div>
These are just a few simple examples of #genderparity practices that you can use to help guide your kids.</div>
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Gender parity would not have been an issue if the men in the C-suites were taught these principles as children.<br />
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It's about creating a shift and changing mindsets. It goes against everything we've been taught but we can and must do it. We've come a long way and we have a long way to go. So we need to accelerate the process. We're stronger when we unite. We each can make a difference. Get involved. Make a commitment.<br />
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I pledge to help women and girls achieve their ambitions (goals).<br />
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<a href="http://www.internationalwomensday.com/" target="_blank">Make a pledge!</a><br />
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Our kids are watching...be bold, be courageous, be a change agent and embrace your journey.<br />
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<br />Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-79080403442726860072016-03-07T09:20:00.000-05:002016-03-07T12:09:04.343-05:00Remembering Nancy Reagan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHy1gHOU6Tw7huEi9N7xxnw8s06BJHfp7mWMcM3ueM3APhezPS2fLVo2pUv-9PxsbNAqgRVid3MPsqPLlAsHy50DLzJvycZgBjc94IXwIABCZCyXsN0rftqwhV7qXP618HEvGZ6qWAd6MT/s1600/Screenshot_2016-03-07-07-34-43-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHy1gHOU6Tw7huEi9N7xxnw8s06BJHfp7mWMcM3ueM3APhezPS2fLVo2pUv-9PxsbNAqgRVid3MPsqPLlAsHy50DLzJvycZgBjc94IXwIABCZCyXsN0rftqwhV7qXP618HEvGZ6qWAd6MT/s320/Screenshot_2016-03-07-07-34-43-1-1.png" width="235" /></a></div>
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Nancy Reagan was an actress, mom, First Lady, advocate for Alzheimer's research and a very devoted wife. Her life was indeed multifaceted and she appeared to have had a great sense of balance during her lifetime.</div>
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In her capacity as First Lady, she was a great influence on her husband, President Ronald Reagan. She was a shrewd adviser to him and it's well known that she played a significant role as adviser in many of his decisions, including the deal with the Soviet Union and the firing of Donald Regan, President Reagan's Chief of Staff. She spearheaded and launched the "Just say NO" anti-drug campaign for which she was highly criticized because her husband's drug policy was considered draconian in its approach. Nevertheless, she had the full support of the President.</div>
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<a href="http://www.vanityfair.com/news/2009/07/nancy-reagan200907" target="_blank">She was known for her style and hosted 56 State dinners in 8 years, as compared to First Lady Laura Bush, who hosted 6</a>. Nancy Reagan loved entertaining and thought that it was a great way to do business....always supporting her husband in his capacity as President.</div>
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Nancy and her husband, whom she affectionately referred to as, Ronnie, were inseparable. She was a very devoted wife and fierce protector of her Ronnie. </div>
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When he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, she became a very influential advocate for stem cell research.</div>
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Theirs was a love story. They were married for 52 years. After he passed away in 2004, visiting and working for his Library was also her way of being close to her love, Ronnie. </div>
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Their love for each other was undeniable. From the adoring looks she gave him, to her unwavering support she gave to him as First Lady and as his care giver. This note her Ronnie wrote to her gives us a glimpse into their kind of love.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25px;">[On their 31st anniversary, the president <a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/news/first-lady-nancy-reagan-remembered-husband-president-ronald-love-story-devotion/" target="_blank">wrote her, "I more than love you, I'm not whole without you. You are life itself to me. When you are gone, I'm waiting for you to return so I can start living again."</a>]</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25px;"><i>She was indeed a woman who embraced her life's journey.</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25px;">Mrs Reagan will lay to rest next to her Ronnie, President Ronald Reagan on the grounds of his Presidential Library.</span></div>
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Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-64813927511975430642016-02-23T14:15:00.000-05:002016-02-23T14:19:46.478-05:00On the PATHWAY <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5656MO2bY2GGVSXDCk0vyU_1Bp1TTmehlEhEgD4W7sN8JJyV8LoMXo_KnPIZo_1d1BMm_hcboQKTOwuKfHwAk3RjFW_aYgh9ro1knRHwO1DJTGomLX0esL15kGaF98ans2YWUnRFSIli/s1600/Screenshot_2016-02-18-18-01-42-1-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV5656MO2bY2GGVSXDCk0vyU_1Bp1TTmehlEhEgD4W7sN8JJyV8LoMXo_KnPIZo_1d1BMm_hcboQKTOwuKfHwAk3RjFW_aYgh9ro1knRHwO1DJTGomLX0esL15kGaF98ans2YWUnRFSIli/s320/Screenshot_2016-02-18-18-01-42-1-1-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Building the Dream... <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-the-dreama-vision-board-soiree-tickets-6818082067?aff=eandprexshre&ref=eandprexshre" target="_blank">A Vision Board Soirée</a><br />
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Come join us for the 1st of our monthly series...<b><i>On the PATHWAY</i></b> on Thursday February 25th. You MUST register to participate.<br />
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Let's gather, share, inspire and unite as we build our DREAMS together over champagne cocktails and cupcakes.<br />
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See you...On the PATHWAY!<br />
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Hosts:<br />
Mum-in-Motion & P2hF<br />
Sponsor:<br />
Pretty Girl Cupcakery-<br />
National Harbor, MDNicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-52398468814047958072016-02-13T00:29:00.000-05:002016-02-13T00:29:25.079-05:00It's a LOVE thing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg420ZUDM3O0pS5uZcjAVAMG0BMJMWengcGSU-1RIvE7aMG0wo0ExCrtyM1RkRviTRfDrlfzkKpIbeoqN00tFjMlLXwJi0fFlKqIsT4CZaJAQOfq_I5M6cznWDOLiC0ft3X6NTWmBW0jrq-/s1600/20160207_150702-2-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg420ZUDM3O0pS5uZcjAVAMG0BMJMWengcGSU-1RIvE7aMG0wo0ExCrtyM1RkRviTRfDrlfzkKpIbeoqN00tFjMlLXwJi0fFlKqIsT4CZaJAQOfq_I5M6cznWDOLiC0ft3X6NTWmBW0jrq-/s320/20160207_150702-2-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">Whether you plan on carving out some special time with your significant other, making goodies for your children, hanging out with girlfriends or taking your pet on a run. Spend sometime in meditation to replenish and rejuvenate your soul. Dont neglect the practice of self love.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kME0J9kE2nmTIJjD_E9q8MVI-905JLWdicqgkESBcn9KAzxx6ytHToFGBmvl7kSJmXYzuVQ7odIepWFBmH42QX1t0evbSvXpRVhYRk6HoGZs4TcAWGgsy0FAHty_pzuTMfui1TlB5Bca/s1600/20160208_194717-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3kME0J9kE2nmTIJjD_E9q8MVI-905JLWdicqgkESBcn9KAzxx6ytHToFGBmvl7kSJmXYzuVQ7odIepWFBmH42QX1t0evbSvXpRVhYRk6HoGZs4TcAWGgsy0FAHty_pzuTMfui1TlB5Bca/s320/20160208_194717-1-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">Here's a little something to meditate on this Valentine's Day. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud </span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. </span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. </span><span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance." - 1 Corinthian 13: 4-7</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fdfeff; color: #001320; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 17.6px; line-height: 23.76px; text-indent: 25px;">Sending you all love on your journey!</span><br />
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Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-58249313682896507572016-01-21T22:01:00.002-05:002016-01-21T22:07:21.774-05:00A Winter Storm named Jonas <br />
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I'm sure by now you're aware that a major winter storm, Jonas, is about to descend upon DC, MD, VA (DMV) and other surrounding states. Typically we (DMVers) joke about snowstorms hitting the Nation's Capital and we have a tendency to panic at the last minute and stock up on food items. However, there are other essential items and information necessary for riding out a storm safely. So let's prepare for the worst, and hope for the best.<br />
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This storm has the potential to be a massive record breaking snowfall. There's still time to get your water, flashlights, batteries, non perishable foods to last approximately 3 days, refill medication to last about 7days, fill gas tanks, etc.<br />
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The following are tips from the Red Cross to help you navigate and be safe during the storm.<br />
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information on snow storms and blizzards from the National Weather Service (NWS).</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.</span></li>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit;">Help people who require special assistance such as elderly people living alone, people with disabilities and children.</span></li>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1481410105"></span><span id="goog_1481410106"></span><br /></div>
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If you haven't prepared, <a href="http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winter-storm" target="_blank">click here</a> for preparation guidance. You have a few hours left. Get what you need, and get off the roads by 12:00 noon on Friday. </div>
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Be safe, be smart, be prepared and embrace your snow journey. </div>
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<header class="sub-header split-section-header" style="border-color: rgb(171, 171, 171); border-style: dotted; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 5px; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1;"></header></section>Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-41488906456547564792016-01-05T17:49:00.001-05:002016-01-05T18:13:07.843-05:00A Brunching We Must GO!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij29ATAeDlLGONNKyRY-H4n7p3xaxiROWH8_egUf2LGCsaqOQZTt11xqqFO-JvBs2rWmt_d-RqpRFTdGa37Uz0KCNAKrdrhQs1t86_bb0nEBbZW0_vpuibaLwJxpQfNDGHFQn6UfHUdye-/s1600/DSC_0294-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij29ATAeDlLGONNKyRY-H4n7p3xaxiROWH8_egUf2LGCsaqOQZTt11xqqFO-JvBs2rWmt_d-RqpRFTdGa37Uz0KCNAKrdrhQs1t86_bb0nEBbZW0_vpuibaLwJxpQfNDGHFQn6UfHUdye-/s320/DSC_0294-1-01.jpeg" width="313" /></a></div>
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The new year brings new beginnings and hopefully, new connections and new authentic moments.<br />
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Brunch is a beautiful way to connect with friends and share your visions and dreams with each other in a relaxed and heartwarming space. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLiK6mMXeC1uA46He9AX_gwtCpDN9EuDJdPt0x967g0Z00w5wVkQ56nr85Nb05ouHmuuC1MTIYbpkyK-ClbO4sewAii1fK1PdjBKK1NJCvF0TkATCjvAXnuTQdYpOl-j9pznxqREhxyK0C/s1600/DSC_0280-1-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLiK6mMXeC1uA46He9AX_gwtCpDN9EuDJdPt0x967g0Z00w5wVkQ56nr85Nb05ouHmuuC1MTIYbpkyK-ClbO4sewAii1fK1PdjBKK1NJCvF0TkATCjvAXnuTQdYpOl-j9pznxqREhxyK0C/s320/DSC_0280-1-1-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I recently hosted a brunch and curated a menu that was simple and fun to the palate. Included in my menu were a few "easy to make" dishes that were instant hits; like my French toast kebobs, mini frittatas, crudite cups and fruit and cream cups. I also made 2 signature drinks (French 75 and Mimosa) so guests could help themselves and this host could relax and mingle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3efuBIEutySUN6zbZuDAolpFc27_a5JnvisGNG73bgScuWY36cAH675HK0kjGcw5lxF4ThMiAbzTFsOmwnLrGjSGsrARvPOX917sqLDc_Mb-Kn_pWWLXULLde6fdlEyBrp7E43PbuR_G6/s1600/DSC_0282-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3efuBIEutySUN6zbZuDAolpFc27_a5JnvisGNG73bgScuWY36cAH675HK0kjGcw5lxF4ThMiAbzTFsOmwnLrGjSGsrARvPOX917sqLDc_Mb-Kn_pWWLXULLde6fdlEyBrp7E43PbuR_G6/s320/DSC_0282-1-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Create a welcoming loving space with flowers and candles. These touches create a space that'll make your guests feel relaxed and loved and they set the tone for a safe space to share. Don't forget to put on your favorite playlist. "If music be the food of love...play on"<br />
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Let this new year bring more authentic relationships. Create a safe space for you and friends to share yourselves and support each other in your endeavors. May 2016 bring you endless opportunities and fulfilled dreams!<br />
Be hospitable, be open, be creative, spread love and light and embrace your new journey!</div>
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Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094643253650394481.post-21796451864213136002015-12-09T19:13:00.002-05:002015-12-09T19:42:35.364-05:00Home for the Holidays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4qH6Mstg-TrSKERRAL2egchjLzQWE7wR3lSIXOOG4S4i0b7TsaiUBDl9CV4KBL7QarPlHOHDbRD5t0OJKPOgbKlOcK_OyIEf2crcycpFZ1ILmRFPk-fGrHyPmflO61gDYvNkSXWrCozI/s1600/20151208_123047-1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4qH6Mstg-TrSKERRAL2egchjLzQWE7wR3lSIXOOG4S4i0b7TsaiUBDl9CV4KBL7QarPlHOHDbRD5t0OJKPOgbKlOcK_OyIEf2crcycpFZ1ILmRFPk-fGrHyPmflO61gDYvNkSXWrCozI/s320/20151208_123047-1-01.jpeg" width="233" /></a></div>
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One of the things I love the most besides preparing my heart for Christmas and creating family moments and memories, is the preparation of my home. During the holiday season I decorate my house with elements of the outdoors and family heirlooms. It's literally a home for the holidays! We head outdoors and gather clippings for me to curate organic looks throughout the home.<br />
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This year I wanted to use magnolia leaves and my neighbor was kind enough to allow me to clip whatever I needed from her trees. Using outdoor elements is an inexpensive and fun way to decorate. You can never go wrong with natural elements.<br />
I wanted to give my mantle a new look this holiday, so I removed the mirror and added an old window pane I salvaged some years ago and added evergreens from my backyard along with the magnolia leaves I got from next door. In addition, I used two artificial plants I had in the attic to frame the look and add height. I finished the look with a red wreath I nabbed from my sister for a punch of color.<br />
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Throughout the house, I combined natural elements with artificial decor. I also use family heirlooms like my grandma's lamp for a nostalgic touch. When entertaining, I also use her glasses, dishes and tea sets she purchased in Europe while she lived there. After all, Christmas is about family and love. </div>
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Don't be afraid to experiment with different designs as you curate a look that is not only warm and inviting, but also, has elements of you and your family. Find creative ways to express yourself in your holiday decor by adding some natural elements to your decor this holiday season.<br />
Be inspired, be creative, be expressive and embrace your journey.Nicole Commissionghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15346678136613668757noreply@blogger.com3